Odyssey Expedition
Long-Term Return-to-Function Program for clients off work one to three years or more
When challenges are too complex for short-term programs, the right solution is hard to come by, because only a thorough, individualized assessment leading to a customized program will do. There’s also the perception that people away from work for many years are a “lost cause,” a mindset that can find its way to the client and block recovery.
We’ve spent 40 years proving that regaining function has no expiry date.
Odyssey Expedition is for people facing complex physical and/or mental health challenges unimproved by traditional care. Most clients have been out of work for one to three years or more, with some out 10 to 15 years, or have gone through repeated cycles of sickness/disability benefits.
We create individualized treatment plans, with the right intensity for each client, and see unparalleled results – even for people who thought that working and enjoying life were over forever.
What’s involved
We start with a thorough assessment by a core, integrated team (behavioural therapist, psychologist, psychometrist, medical consultants if needed) and create a holistic, individualized treatment plan.
We use evidence-based behavioural techniques delivered by a Kinesiologist and/or Registered Psychotherapist to improve physical and mental health, focused on gradually increasing and improving mobility, activity and physical function. Psychologists intervene as required to address deeper barriers to progress. Vocational Services help people prepare for return-to-work, or explore new directions where appropriate.
All assessments and sessions are delivered via our secure, health-compliant video platform, while clients log their daily activities and see their progress on our shared digital platform; the more engaged and included they are, the greater their success.
Odyssey Expedition Client Journey: Maggie
The Onset
Maggie had a mostly typical childhood, marked by her parents’ divorce, her mother’s depression, and high school bullying. She went on to complete her education, became a software developer, married and had two children.
One icy December day, Maggie slipped and sustained a concussion. Despite sincere efforts to recover, her symptoms – headaches, nausea, poor focus, fatigue, neck pain, and low mood – worsened. She withdrew from daily life, sleep became a struggle, and hopelessness took over.
Three years later, her insurance provider referred her to Odyssey Health. After a thorough health history and physical/psychological assessment, Odyssey Health recommended the Expedition program.
Treatment
In treatment with her behavioral therapist and psychologist, Maggie explored her suffering and what she felt a meaningful life would look like. She shared her physical and cognitive challenges and helped shape her personalized path toward change. Treatment focused on values-based goals, using tools like mindfulness, pacing, sleep hygiene, individualized physical activity and planning. Her therapist walked alongside her throughout it all, often literally.
Although her headaches worsened early in treatment, the tools and support helped Maggie slowly progress. She was engaging with her family and friends again, maintaining her home, using her computer, and communicating better with her partner. Despite occasional headaches and fatigue, living life was worth it.
Return to Work
Maggie and her team created a return-to-work plan, shared with her employer. As the start date approached, worry resurfaced. Her clinicians validated her feelings and helped her use the tools she’d mastered.
The first week back to a busy workplace and curious co-workers was challenging, but with time and her new strategies things improved. Maggie’s clinicians supported her during her gradual return and for a while after. Once she was settled into her new life, they wished her well.